The Cultural Heritage Administration stated today, “North Korea’s application to register Taekwondo as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage does not mean that we will lose Taekwondo to North Korea.”
In a press release, the Cultural Heritage Administration explained, “For example, South Korea registered Arirang in 2012, while North Korea did so in 2014. Similarly, South Korea registered the Kimjang culture (kimchi-making) in 2013, followed by North Korea in 2015.”
On the same day, a media outlet released an article titled “Will North Korea take Taekwondo?” Citing an official from the Korea Taekwondo UNESCO Promotion Team, the article noted that although South and North Korea had been working towards a joint registration of Taekwondo, North Korea had instead applied for individual registration.
The Cultural Heritage Administration clarified, “The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage system is designed to register and protect intangible cultural heritage from various countries, emphasizing cultural diversity and creativity. Therefore, being the first to apply or register does not grant exclusive rights.”
They noted that North Korea has submitted an application to UNESCO to register Taekwondo but clarified that such an application does not automatically lead to registration. The final decision will depend on UNESCO’s review process, with outcomes expected in 2026.
The administration clarified that there had been no discussions or efforts at the government level to pursue a joint registration of Taekwondo with North Korea. They emphasized their commitment to supporting Taekwondo through South Korean procedures. The selection of candidates for South Korea’s Intangible Cultural Heritage is conducted through a public application process managed by the Cultural Heritage Administration, and they intend to continue supporting Taekwondo in collaboration with relevant private organizations following these procedures.